When thinking about breast augmentation, one decision to make is whether to get silicone or saline implants. One of the most obvious differences here, and often a deciding factor, is the risk of implant rupture. Saline implants are generally very easy to detect because the implant will deflate and your body will simply absorb the saline. Silicone implants can be a bit trickier to detect. Because silicone holds its shape, you may not immediately notice the rupture.
FDA Recommendations for Breast Implant Screening
Currently, the most accurate screening methods use magnetic resonance imaging (MRI). The FDA recommends screening 5 to 6 years after your breast augmentation and every 2 to 3 years after that with either MRI or ultrasound devices. MRIs can get very expensive for the patient as insurance rarely covers the costs.
Convenient Ultrasound Screening at MidAmerica Plastic Surgery
Dr. Diederich of MidAmerica Plastic Surgery now has a convenient option for screening implants. He just acquired a new screening tool to allow us to monitor implants in the office! This ultrasound device is specifically designed for cosmetic breast implants, allowing Dr. Diederich to screen and monitor our patients’ implants. Although this is a screening method, it will help provide peace of mind to all women with silicone breast implants by evaluating the state of the implant.
How Often Should You Have Breast Implants Checked?
We currently recommend annual ultrasound screening or any time there is a concern. This will also allow Dr. Diederich to better prepare before stepping into the operating room if the implant is ruptured and needs to be removed.
What Are Signs of Ruptured Breast Implants?
Silicone breast implant ruptures are often referred to as “silent ruptures” because they don’t cause any outward sign of a tear or leak. However, some people with torn implants may experience one or all of a variety of symptoms, such as:
- Pain
- Misshapen breast
- Swelling
- Firmness
- Change in breast size
Generally, as long as you pay attention to your body and stay aware of any changes, you should be able to notice when something feels different in your breasts. If you notice any of the above signs, however, have your implants screened right away. You can learn more about detecting implant ruptures in our related blog post.
Schedule an Appointment
MidAmerica Plastic Surgery is available to set up an appointment for any woman with breast implants who would like to be screened. Whether you think something might be wrong or just want to get a breast implant check up, please call us at (618) 288-7855 to schedule a time to come into our office! You can also reach out to us online.
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